Barry Ferguson expects Rangers to make late transfer push for John Souttar, others
Rangers will make another attempt to bring in John Souttar before the end of the January transfer window, expects former captain Barry Ferguson.
The Alloa Athletic manager has also tipped Giovanni van Bronckhorst to add another attacking option on a permanent deal, following the loan addition of Manchester United’s Adam Diallo.
Ferguson reasons that the manager did not want to come out of the window weaker than he went in, and with Nathan Patterson sold to Everton and Ianis Hagi out for the season with injury that should mean recruitment.
Writing in his Daily Record column, the ex-Scotland midfielder said: “I fully expect them to try again to bring in John Souttar from Hearts, a player who will really beef up the manager’s central defensive options.
“And even though Diallo is an exciting, short-term addition, I wouldn’t rule out the Ibrox gaffer trying to spend a few quid on recruiting another forward-thinking player on a permanent basis.”
Down to the wire
The saga surrounding Hearts defender Souttar has been a mainstay this month, with Gers finally securing an agreement for a summer free transfer.
But with Tynecastle fans reacting badly and booing their player, plus the obvious benefit he would provide in the defence at Ibrox, a continued push appears to be on to bring him in before January 31st.
An injury to Craig Halkett lead the Edinburgh side’s manager to claim the price for Souttar had gone up this week (Scottish Sun), with the price to bring the 25-year-old in now previously thought to be around £500,000 (Football Scotland).
And further attacking reinforcements would be a boon to the league-leaders who have been struggling through a number of player absences.
Hagi picked up a serious injury in the cup last Friday to rule him out for the season, and while Joe Aribo is set to return from the Africa Cup of Nations, Alfredo Morelos has been called up to the Colombia squad and is set to miss the Old Firm derby.
The Light Blues had to rely on strong performances from Fashion Sakala and teenage sensation Alex Lowry as they laboured to a 1-0 win over Livingston in mid week.
A central striker might be the focus now with Cedric Itten struggling currently.
In other Rangers news, this important Ibrox man is facing the exit with interest from America.